For many women being a beauty queen and living in the spotlight is something we all secretly dream. Fortunately for Zoe Cadore, she does not have to dream it, as it is her reality. After grabbing the local title, Cadore competed nationally to become the first Houstonian to win the coveted title of Miss Caribbean United States.

“I want to ensure that Caribbean-Americans continue to thrive as a people and maintain a sense of community within the United States,” said the newly crowned Cadore, I understand and appreciate that I am the descendant of a people that survived the horrors of slavery and colonization while maintaining their culture and heritage. I am the descendant of a strong and resilient people that hold dear the values of family, faith and the mentality of enjoying and living life to the fullest.”

The title of Miss Caribbean United States can be compared to other national titles such as Miss USA or Miss America but has a purpose to not only promote the culture but also to empower every one of Caribbean descent.

Cadore has made history by being the first woman from the South and the first person of Guyanese descent to hold this title as well as the 15th Miss Caribbean United States. “I want to use this opportunity to bridge the gap between the Caribbean and the Black community in Houston. We are very divided and have more in common than we think,” said Cadore.

With this new opportunity, Cadore wants to encourage young Caribbeans to seek economic and entrepreneurial opportunities in the Caribbean through her platform titled

CARIH: Caribbean Americans Reinvesting in Their Homelands. It is no secret that many come to the United States for a better life, but unfortunately very few bring back those resources to the Caribbean, something that Cadore hopes she is able to change.

“It is important to promote Caribbean pride so that Caribbean-Americans everywhere can have a sense of inclusion. Because most Caribbean-Americans can trace their families back to a specific country, this allows them to have a better understanding of their culture and ancestry outside of what is taught or omitted in American history books. Caribbeans have contributed greatly to the world through our food, dances, music, natural resources, and dances. Additionally, our celebrations such as Carnival have captivated audiences worldwide and our landscapes serve as global vacation destinations. Understanding and recognizing these truths can perennially motivate all of us to continue the legacy of being global leaders, innovators, and influencers,” said Cadore.

Along with her national platform, Cadore also wants to show young girls that you can be a beauty queen and also be smart. You don’t have to choose one over the other.

To promote her platforms Cadore will make numerous appearances at different events for National Caribbean American Heritage Month, which has taken place every June since 2005. She will also make an appearance at Houston’s Annual Caribbean Festival which will take place July 4-9. The festival will feature authentic Caribbean food and music while booming with Caribbean pride.

Aside from being a beauty queen, Cadore is also a two-time college graduate. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Spelman College as well as a Law degree from University of Houston Law Center. In addition, she is a Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Fellow on Capitol Hill where she focuses on Energy and Environmental Policy.

Keep up with Cadore’s reign and upcoming projects by following @queen_esquire and @misscaribbeabunitedstates on social media.